Education charity founder receives honorary degree

A Reading-based educational charity founder has received an honorary degree from the University of Reading.

Dorothy Dix, co-founder and CEO of the charity Creating Better Futures, received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters in a ceremony on Thursday 24 July.

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Dix was the first in her family and village to attend university. She received a scholarship to study Psychology and Physiology at the University of Reading, graduating in 2001.

After her own life was transformed through education, she dedicated herself to helping others do the same.

In 2012, she co-founded Creating Better Futures alongside her husband. Through the charity, Dix has changed the lives of thousands of orphans and vulnerable children in rural Zimbabwe through education, support and community development initiatives.

In the UK, her award-winning coaching programmes equip young people—particularly those from underserved backgrounds—with confidence, vital work experience, and the employability skills to thrive. Her inspiring work continues to benefit students at the University of Reading, as well as young people across Berkshire, and internationally through the United World Colleges network.

'Global changemaker'

Dix has been a visiting lecturer across multiple disciplines at the University and a keynote speaker at many University events. In 2017, she joined the University Court and also received the University of Reading Distinguished Volunteer Award. 

She is now recognised as an industry expert in the small charity sector and is regularly invited to deliver keynote speeches nationwide.

Professor Simon Mortimer, Head of the School of Agriculture, Policy & Development at the University, said: "Dorothy Dix embodies the transformational power of education and represents the very best of our alumni community. Her journey from scholarship student to global changemaker demonstrates extraordinary resilience and vision. 

“Through Creating Better Futures, she has transformed thousands of lives while providing invaluable opportunities for our students. Her compassion and unwavering belief in human potential, along with her tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion, make her an inspirational role model and a truly deserving recipient of this honour."